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Top 5 Beginner Body Position Mistakes | Mountain Bike Skills

Getting the correct posture can be tough whether you’re new to Mountain Biking or an experienced rider. So let Blake and Doddy tell you the do’s and don’ts of correct of positioning your body on the bike.

1. Sitting Down – We all need to rest sometimes, but sitting down on the bike is not for the middle of a downhill run! Sitting down can be dangerous and encourage the rear of the bike to kick upwards and force you over the bars. Always assume a standing, relaxed, ‘ready position’ when riding technical trails.

2. Unbalanced Feet – Riding with the cranks at 12 and 6 can be handy for trail features such as off cambers. However, for the usual twists and turns of a trail, you’ll be off balance, uncomfortable and risk pedal strikes if riding with a dropped foot. Ride with crank arms level with your favourite foot forward!

3. No Flow – Feel the trail, push into rollers and corners and maintain your flow! Not only will you feel more comfortable and more in control, you’ll brake less, go faster…and have more fun!

4. Elbows In – By riding with your elbows in you’re limiting your potential on the bike. A wider platform against the bars is a more stable one and you’ll have much better control, strength and power to get the bike going where you want it!

5. Knees Out – Everything in moderation! While a wide position with your elbows is favourable, too wide a position with your knees will force an odd riding style to develop. Your legs should be in a comfortably stable position and allow you to move the bike under yourself. However, don’t over estimate the amount of room needed for this and force your legs out too wide!